The Kern is one of the oldest rivers in California, established nearly 80 million years ago when Sierra was a volcanic range. It is the largest watershed in this region, and often runs until early July, fed by the high mountain snowmelt. Sections of it were added to the National Scenic and Wild Rivers System in 1987. It is also known as one of the most dangerous rivers in the state and the Spanish named it Rio Bravo because it was so difficult to cross.

Whitewater boaters will enjoy the diversity of runs offered, with everything from easy sections (like the Powerhouse run on the Upper Kern), to the beautiful wilderness section called the Forks of the Kern, which offers stunning alpine scenery and thunderous rapids, making it one of California’s best stretches of white water. This 17-mile section includes many Class IVs and Vs and should only be attempted by advanced boaters.

Farther down river, the 2.4-mile Limestone run is another favorite for expert boaters because of the strong rapids and interesting scenery, featuring large limestones along the granite walls of the gorge.

There are many other short stretches of river accessible from the road that can be run multiple times in a day or continuously for solid Class V boaters.